Getting to Know the Similkameen: Arts, History & Culture
From colourful murals and bronze sculptures to historic museums and former mining communities, the Similkameen Valley offers plenty of ways to connect with the people, places and stories that have shaped this distinctive corner of British Columbia.
The valley lies within the ancestral, traditional and unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan Nation. Indigenous connections to this land, its waterways and its resources extend back thousands of years. Later generations of miners, ranchers, farmers and settlers added their own stories to the region’s cultural fabric.
Murals, Art & Creative Expression
Art appears in unexpected places throughout the valley. Murals in Princeton, Hedley, Keremeos and Cawston bring local history, community character and regional stories to life on buildings and public spaces. Take time to look around as you travel Highway 3, where these colourful works offer glimpses into the people, industries and traditions that define each community.
In Princeton, the Bronze Sculpture Walk features life-sized bronze wildlife sculptures that reflect the area’s natural surroundings. Local artists, artisans and community events throughout the valley provide further opportunities to connect with the region’s creative spirit.
Museums & Living Heritage
The valley’s museums and historic sites offer a closer look at the industries, ingenuity and everyday lives that helped shape its communities.
In Princeton, local heritage collections tell stories of the region’s mining, ranching, railway and settlement history. The town’s distinctive bronze sculptures also celebrate the wildlife and landscapes that remain central to its identity. Discover 23 stunning life-sized bronze statues on the Princeton walking tour — a free, self-guided route through town where each piece tells part of the region’s story.
In Hedley, the museum explores the community’s remarkable gold-mining past, including the historic Nickel Plate Mine and the people who came to work in the surrounding mountains. The area’s heritage buildings and murals provide further reminders of its mining-town origins.
Near Keremeos, the historic Grist Mill and Gardens preserves the story of early milling and pioneer life. Its restored water-powered mill, heritage buildings and gardens offer a tangible connection to the valley’s agricultural past. The South Similkameen Museum provides another perspective on local history, community life and the development of the region.
Around Cawston and the Lower Similkameen, agricultural heritage is an important part of the local story. Orchards, vineyards, farm stands and rural landscapes reflect generations of farming and the continuing evolution of the valley’s agricultural identity. Murals and community landmarks offer additional opportunities to appreciate the stories behind these rural communities.
Make History Part of Your Journey
Whether you’re interested in Indigenous heritage, mining history, early agriculture, architecture, sculpture or contemporary arts, there is more to the Similkameen than meets the eye. Visit a museum, follow a heritage walk, stop to appreciate a mural or take a closer look at the stories behind a community landmark.
As you travel Highway 3 from Princeton through Hedley and Keremeos to Cawston, allow time for a few unplanned stops. The people, places, and stories you encounter along the way offer another perspective on what makes the Similkameen Valley so distinctive.
Plan your cultural road trip: Visit our Heritage & Arts page for more ideas and places to include on your next visit.
Visit the historic Grist Mill and Gardens in Keremeos, a captivating Provincial Heritage Site, with the distinction of being the last operational waterwheel flour mill in British Columbia, dating back to 1877. Camp/RV, take in heritage dinners, and other special events that are offered all summer.
Contact Us
The Similkameen is calling — come for the adventure, stay for the flavour, and leave with unforgettable memories. Our Visitor Centre councillors are local knowledge experts and are here to assist you. Contact Us
Getting Here
Getting here is an adventure in itself – check out our road trip routes that bring you here from any direction.
Stay
Linger longer, stay at a quaint inn, guest house, B&B, suite, motel in town, heritage site, ranch, orchard, vineyard and even a distillery. For camping, glamping & RVing, options range from remote tenting spots to fully serviced sites. Many locations are river view, riverfront, on acreage, on a golf course, near towns and trails or choose from 7 Provincial Parks with campgrounds.
Summer Highlights Gallery
